COMSOL Multiphysics® Simulation Integrated into Genetic Optimization

V. Longinotti[1], S. Di Marco[1], S. Pistilli[1], F. Costa[1], M. Giusti[1], G. Gammariello[1], I. Gison[1], G. Latessa[1,2], D. Mascolo[2], A. Buosciolo[1]
[1]Altran Italia, Roma, Italy
[2]Consorzio DeltaTi Research, Milano, Italy
Published in 2013

The main topic of this paper is the development of an innovative tool that can be applied in a wide range of complex problems, to simulate, optimize and improve system design especially when dealing with huge numbers of parameters and constraints. The new methodology is obtained by joining the power of COMSOL Muliphysics® simulation with the modern optimization approach of genetic algorithms. It has been successfully applied within an industrial research program focused on the development of µTEGs based on innovative proprietary materials. This paper shows how this tool optimizes µTEG’s element geometry in a simple case study. Values of the thermoelectric material physical variables can’t be disclosed for confidentiality reasons.